Fred was raised in Moline and through his high school years played with teen bands for after game dances, proms, etc. He played in Rock and Roll and Country bands through the 70's and 80's. Also during this time he attended WIU and earned both a bachelors and a masters degree. He stayed on at WIU for a few years as an instructor.

He has lived in various locations including Louisville, Denver, Quincy and LaGrange, Georgia. He and his wife raised two children and now have two grandchildren, as well. During much of this time, music had to take a back seat to more important things like family and work.

Now in retirement, music has moved once again to the forefront. "Popular music, Folk music, early Rock and Roll, and Country music have all served to form whatever musical ability I have," says Railsbach. "Today, I play for most of the retirement homes in the Macomb area, as well as other private individual functions, such as tonight (Macomb Lions Club Meeting, February 16, 2012.)"